From notable keynote speakers to past and current AOTA presidents, the faces of our professional celebrities abound at conference time. One notable personality and conference icon is our own colleague Fred Sammons. Fred, an entrepreneurial OTR founded the company that we all know today as Sammons Preston Rolyan, a huge supplier of OT equipment and supporter of AOTA. In my several years of conference attendance, not one has passed where Fred himself was not in attendance as well. From his eternal smile to well coiffed white hair, Fred is a delight. Not only does he attend the AOTA conference, but he can be found in the exhibit hall taking photos with attendees. As you pass the Sammons Preston Rolyan booth you will hear him say "Get your picture with Fred"... an instant memento of your day. I personally have at least four pictures with Fred. I change year to year, Fred never seems to.
In addition to having a photo taken with him, Fred may also be at the airport waiting to give you a ride to your hotel. Two years ago I flew into Long Beach airport 2 days before conference in order to attend the program directors meeting. While waiting for my luggage, I felt a tap on my shoulder. When I turned around there was Fred, asking if I was an OT (yes, we CAN be picked out of the crowd). I told him yes and he said that he would give me a ride to my hotel in his Limo. We found 3 other OT's and took off down the LA freeway with Fred at the wheel.
So don't forget to look for Fred in the exhibit hall and keep your eyes open at the airport...you just might hitch a ride with one of our own home grown celebrities!
Debbie Amini

